Pros and Cons of different-geometry variants of a character model
Regarding point 2.


It helps to know what is the center of focus and pick your battles.  More close view inspection may require more finesse.
Intersecting geometry is not necessarily an issue.  If you do not create excessive geometry.
If the area is not subject to intense scrutiny then no one will observe the minimized discontinuity of the clip-on curls .. I mean ummm ...embellishment.
Clearly game development would use textures and normal maps to simulate geometry and the audience does not protest very much